During the lockdown, teachers, as well as pupils, have been encouraged to try and fulfil the CAS ideals (Creativity, Activity and Service).
James Fair, Geography
Are you finding any creative ways to adapt to day to day life during this period of isolation?
I would love to say I have learnt a new language or how to play a musical instrument but balancing home life and teaching has been a challenge and pretty full-on as some of my classes will know with my two-year-old Zoom bombing the occasional lesson. However, I have become an expert on CBeebies and picked up some handy geographical knowledge from the Go Jetters.
Are you managing to stay active? If so, how?
Luckily my children go to sleep early and the weather has been good so I have been able to get out most evenings either on my bike or out for a run. It helps de-stress after the day and has a positive impact on my wellbeing. It also helps to wake me up to do some more work that night. During the weekends we have made use of our allotment, where I am the specialist at removing weeds, as well as sneaking up to Andrew’s Coppice for a family walk.
The ongoing pandemic is proving challenging for many, are you finding ways to help your community?
In the initial stages, we had to self-isolate and our neighbours were very supportive and so we have tried to return the favour as often as possible. We also have a local food bank which we are donating to as they have struggled with the demand over the recent months. Mr Browning and I also completed the 24-hour cycle ride which hopefully inspired others to create their own challenge as well as raising over £2,000.
Elaine Sigston, Design and Technology
Are you finding any creative ways to adapt to day to day life during this period of isolation?
I’ve been setting my year group challenges over this time. We’ve completed over 16 so far! I feel like I’ve turned into a Blue Peter presenter. We’ve made wildflower propagators and bird feeders out of plastic bottles. Bug hotels and other nature projects. For indoor activities, toilet roll puppets and plastic bag recycling containers made from Pringle tubes.
Are you managing to stay active? If so, how?
Away from the screen I’ve been gardening, planting up my pots and making hanging baskets. I’ve had to be creative in ways of obtaining the plants and containers, however, they are looking lovely now.
The ongoing pandemic is proving challenging for many, are you finding ways to help your community?
I have set up several community projects during the pandemic. Year 8 have had the cupcake challenge, making cakes for the elderly for their afternoon tea. I too have been baking and taking cakes to my elderly widowers who are in their late 80s, early 90s. I also drop off Sunday dinners. I have also set up a food bank collection point and neighbours in the road drop off tins and dry items, which I then take down to the Trussell Trust on a Wednesday for those in need in the Quinton and Harborne area.
